Light planes invade Washington D.C. restricted airspace. Two planes get stolen and taken for joy rides. In simpler times these might not raise the ire that they do today. The invasion of restricted airspace might have been passed of as regretable mistakes or errors in judgment. The joyrides might have been excused as malicious mischief. But, these aren't simpler times and the first thing that comes to anyone's mind is...terrorism.

As GA pilots we have a responsibility to ensure the safety of fellow citizens, and there are things we can do to help prevent what, next time, might not be an error in judgment or childish mischief.

The AOPA has partnered with the TSA to create a program called Airport Watch. Think of it as neighborhood Watch for your local airport and FBO. The AOPA is asking all 650,000 GA pilots to participate. If you're interested, and I hope you are, you can find out more information by visiting the Airport Watch website.